Drawing the Samurai Sword: The Japanese Art of Swordsmanship; Master the Ancient Art of Iaido - Paperback

by Darrell Max Craig (Author)

To the Japanese, the sword is a spiritual weapon. It possesses a particular divinity, reflecting the soul of its maker, owner, and user. Around its mystical powers has grown the centuries-old ritual and practice of Samurai swordsmanship which is still avidly practiced today as is a fascinating and intricate martial art. This unique guide unlocks all the mysteries of the ancient tradition of Iaijutsu--explaining the history and significance of the sword in Samurai culture and documenting the techniques of swordsmanship as found in no other martial arts book.

• How to evaluate your Samurai sword and handle it safely
• How to wear the traditional Hakama uniform
• How to perform the Kata forms to hone your technique
• The brutal history of sword testing, and today's more humane equivalent
• The classic and exciting story of "The Forty-Seven Ronin"
• And much more!

Author Biography

Darrell Max Craig is considered one of the "Pioneers of Kendo in the United States of America" by the United States Kendo Federation. He began his training while in the U.S. Marine Corps, studying in Japan with Gogen Yamaguchi in 1956, and in Okinawa with Zenryo Shimabukuro beginning in 1958. While in Okinawa, he also began the study of Okinawan weaponry. Among others, he holds 7th Dan in Kendo, 6th Dan in Shito Ryu Karate, Junse Goshin Budo Jujitsu, Iaido and Okinawan Kobudo, and 4th Dan in Jodo, Osae Aikido, Kodokan Judo and Osae Junse Aikido. He was a member of Team USA in 1985 at the 6th World Kendo Championships in Paris, France. He operated the Houston Budokan, Inc., a traditional Japanese martial arts school in Texas, for nearly 50 years and is now retired.